There’s something almost primal about craving beef jerky. Maybe it’s the intense, smoky flavor, the satisfying chew, or the pure protein punch that makes it the ultimate on-the-go snack. I remember being on a long road trip years ago, desperately searching for “beef jerky near me” and finding nothing but gas station options that were more salt than substance. That experience sparked a mission: to find the best local and homemade beef jerky, so you never have to settle. Whether you’re looking for a specialty jerky store locator, curious about artisanal jerky, or ready to make your own, this guide is your ultimate resource for finding—or creating—the perfect beef jerky.
Table of Contents
Beef Jerky Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide to Ingredients
Beef jerky near me searches often lead to store-bought bags, but the magic of homemade jerky starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. You have complete control over the flavor and quality, something you can’t always guarantee when figuring out where to buy beef jerky.
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds lean beef (like top round, eye of round, or flank steak), partially frozen for easier slicing
- ¾ cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Smart Swaps: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For a sugar-free version, swap the brown sugar with a sugar-free syrup. If you don’t have liquid smoke, a teaspoon of chipotle powder can add a similar smoky depth.
Timing Your Homemade Jerky Adventure
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4-8 hours for marinating)
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 14 hours
While the total time seems long, the active work is minimal. This homemade process is about 50% cheaper than buying premium artisanal jerky, and you get to call all the shots on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Beef Jerky
Making jerky at home is a rewarding process. Follow these steps for a foolproof result.
- Slice the Meat: While the meat is still partially frozen, slice it against the grain into ¼-inch thick strips. Slicing against the grain will make your final jerky much easier to chew. Pro tip: Use a very sharp knife and steady, even pressure for uniform strips.
- Create the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and all the spices until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate Thoroughly: Place the beef strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight will give you the most profound flavor.
- Dry the Jerky: Preheat your oven or dehydrator to 165°F (74°C). If using an oven, place wire racks on top of baking sheets to allow for air circulation. Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the racks, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook Low and Slow: Dry the jerky for 4 to 6 hours. The jerky is done when it is dry and firm but still pliable. It should bend without breaking in half. Cooking time can vary, so start checking at the 4-hour mark.
For a different take on the classic, our Beefcake Jerky recipe offers a bolder, peppery profile that’s well worth trying.
Nutritional Information for Your Homemade Jerky
This recipe makes about 12 servings. Per serving (approximately 1 ounce):
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 4g
Homemade jerky is an excellent source of high-quality protein, making it ideal for post-workout recovery, hiking snacks, or a keto-friendly bite. By controlling the sodium and sugar yourself, you create a much healthier snack than many commercial brands like Jack Link’s Beef Jerky.
Equipment Needed for Homemade Jerky
You don’t need a professional setup to make great jerky.
- A sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl or resealable bags
- Baking sheets
- Wire racks (for oven method)
- Oven or a food dehydrator
Why You’ll Love This Beef Jerky Recipe
This method solves the “beef jerky near me” problem permanently.
- Total Control: You decide the salt, sugar, and spice levels.
- Cost-Effective: Making it at home is significantly cheaper per ounce than buying premium jerky.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade penetrates deeply, creating a far superior taste to most mass-produced options.
- Perfect for Gifts: A bag of homemade jerky is a thoughtful, impressive gift for any occasion.
- No Preservatives: You know exactly what’s in your snack, with no artificial ingredients.
Healthier Alternatives for Your Beef Jerky
Customizing your jerky to fit your dietary needs is simple.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce or omit the Worcestershire sauce.
- Sugar-Free: Substitute the brown sugar with a sugar-free alternative like allulose or monk fruit sweetener.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Jerky
Beef jerky is incredibly versatile beyond just a solo snack.
- Charcuterie Boards: Chop it up and add it to a board for a hit of savory protein.
- Salads & Soups: Crumble jerky over a hearty salad or use it as a garnish for a creamy potato soup.
- Trail Mix: Create a high-energy trail mix by combining jerky pieces with nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate chips.
- Camping Trips: Its long shelf life and portability make it the perfect camping food.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Jerky
A few simple missteps can affect your final product.
- Slicing with the Grain: This is the number one reason for tough, hard-to-chew jerky. Always slice against the grain for a more tender bite.
- Marinating Too Long: While flavor is good, marinating for more than 24 hours can actually start to “cook” the meat in the acid (ceviche-style), resulting in a mushy texture.
- Uneven Slicing: If your slices are different thicknesses, they will dry at different rates. Some pieces will be done while others are still raw.
- Skipping the Pat-Dry: Before placing the meat in the oven or dehydrator, pat the strips dry with a paper towel. This helps the jerky dry instead of steam.
Storing Tips for Your Homemade Beef Jerky
Proper storage is key to longevity.
- Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store jerky in an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. It will keep at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 2 months.
- Freezer: For the longest shelf life (up to 6 months), store your jerky in a freezer-safe bag or container. There’s no need to thaw it; just grab and go!
If you enjoy the process, you might also love our Deer Jerky Recipe for a wild game variation.
Beef Jerky Near Me: Your Journey to the Perfect Snack
The next time you find yourself searching for “beef jerky near me,” remember that the best option might just be in your own kitchen. Making your own is a fun, rewarding process that puts you in charge of flavor and quality. Whether you stick with this classic recipe or explore others like our foundational Beef Jerky guide, you’re well on your way to never settling for a subpar snack again.
I’d love to hear about your jerky-making adventures! What flavor variations did you try? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations and tag @Stacksipsnack on Pinterest. Happy snacking
FAQs about beef jerky near me
Where can I find beef jerky near me?
You can find beef jerky at several types of stores. Major grocery chains, convenience stores, gas stations, and specialty meat markets typically carry it. For a wider selection of flavors and artisanal options, search for local butchers or dedicated jerky shops in your area.
What stores sell the best beef jerky?
The best beef jerky is often found at specialty butchers, local jerky shops, and farmers markets, where it is frequently made in-house with high-quality ingredients. For national brands, large retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target offer popular and well-reviewed options.
Does 7-Eleven have beef jerky?
Yes, 7-Eleven is a reliable source for beef jerky. They stock a variety of popular national brands like Jack Link’s and Old Trapper. Their selection is convenient for a quick purchase and is available at most locations.
Is beef jerky sold at Walmart?
Yes, Walmart sells a wide assortment of beef jerky. You can find it in the snack aisle, typically near other meat snacks and nuts. They carry many major brands and often have their own Great Value brand at a lower price point.
Can I buy beef jerky at a gas station?
Absolutely. Most gas stations, including chains like Shell, Chevron, and Circle K, sell beef jerky. It is a common travel snack and is usually displayed near the checkout counter or in the snack section.
Who has the cheapest beef jerky?
For the lowest prices on standard brands, check large discount retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Sam’s Club. Their bulk packages offer a lower cost per ounce. Generic store brands at supermarkets are also typically cheaper than name-brand options.
Homemade Beef Jerky
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 14 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Skip the store bought jerky and make your own with this easy recipe. Perfectly seasoned, smoky, and chewy homemade beef jerky that’s better than anything you can buy.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds lean beef (like top round, eye of round, or flank steak), partially frozen for easier slicing
- ¾ cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Slice the Meat: While the meat is still partially frozen, slice it against the grain into ¼-inch thick strips. Slicing against the grain will make your final jerky much easier to chew.
- Create the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and all the spices until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate Thoroughly: Place the beef strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight will give you the most profound flavor.
- Dry the Jerky: Preheat your oven or dehydrator to 165°F (74°C). If using an oven, place wire racks on top of baking sheets to allow for air circulation. Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the racks, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook Low and Slow: Dry the jerky for 4 to 6 hours. The jerky is done when it is dry and firm but still pliable. It should bend without breaking in half. Cooking time can vary, so start checking at the 4-hour mark.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, in the refrigerator for up to 2 months, or in the freezer for up to 6 months. For gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Dehydrating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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